What this notice is about
You claimed a dependent on your tax return with reported gross income for more than the deduction amount for a dependent. Someone else also claimed this dependent with the same Social Security number on another tax return.
You can’t claim someone whose gross income exceeds the deduction amount for a dependent unless that person is permanently and totally disabled at some time during the tax year and his or her income is from services performed at a sheltered workshop.
We listed the last four digits of the Social Security number for each dependent or qualifying child we’re concerned about on the notice for your review.
What you need to do
- Compare the Social Security numbers from your notice with the Social Security card for each dependent or qualifying child you listed on your tax return.
- Review the rules for claiming each dependent or qualifying child. After reviewing the rules:
- If you find you’re entitled to claim the dependent, you don’t need to write or send anything to us at this time.
- If you find you listed someone who doesn’t qualify as your dependent or qualifying child, you must correct your return by filing a Form 1040-X, Amended U.S. Individual Income Tax Return. The instructions for this form will guide you through the steps to correct your return. Mail your amended return to the IRS service center shown in the instructions.
You may want to
- Review this notice with your tax preparer if you used one.
- Review the rules for claiming a dependent or qualifying child in Publication 501, Dependents, Standard Deduction, and Filing Information.
- Keep this notice for your records.
Frequently asked questions
Disclosure laws prohibit us from revealing the name of the taxpayer who used the same social security number as your dependent or qualifying child.
You don’t need to take any action or send us any documents at this time.
Contact us at the number shown on your notice. You can also refer to the IRS Identity theft central page for more information.
No, we’re not auditing you at this time.
Tips for next year
Visit the Interactive Tax Assistant (ITA) and select topic, “Whom may I claim as a dependent?” to determine if you’re eligible to claim each dependent or qualifying child you plan to list on your tax return next year.
Helpful information
Need help?
- You can authorize someone to represent you before the IRS or inspect and/or receive confidential tax information.
- You may be eligible for free help from the Taxpayer Advocate Service (TAS).
- See if you qualify for help from a Low Income Taxpayer Clinic.
- You can request a copy of your notice or letter in Braille or large print.
- If you can’t find what you need online, call the telephone number on your notice or letter.